AISI 316 1.4401 SUS316 Stainless Steel with Superior Corrosion Resistance

Product Overview

AISI 316 is a premium molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel renowned for its superior corrosion resistance—outperforming 304 stainless steel, especially in chloride-rich and acidic environments. Compliant with global standards such as X5CrNiMo17-12-2/1.4401 (Europe EN 10088-3), 06Cr17Ni12Mo2/0Cr17Ni12Mo2 (China GB/T 1220), SUS316 (Japan JIS G4303), and 03X17H14M3/000X17H13M2 (Russia GOST 5632-76).

Globally Recognized Equivalents

Cross-standard compatibility (X5CrNiMo17-12-2/1.4401, JIS SUS316, 06Cr17Ni12Mo2) ensures seamless integration into international supply chains and manufacturing projects.

Product Features

Chemical Composition of 316 Steel

The chemical composition of AISI 316 and its equivalent grades is carefully balanced to deliver optimal performance. Below is a breakdown of key elements:

The precise combination of chromium, nickel, and molybdenum creates a stable austenitic structure, while low carbon content minimizes the risk of intergranular corrosion during welding or heat treatment.

Key Features & Benefits

1. Superior Corrosion Resistance

The addition of molybdenum (2% content) is the defining feature that sets AISI 316 apart from other stainless steels. This element forms a protective oxide layer on the surface, preventing pitting and crevice corrosion in harsh environments such as:

• Saltwater (marine applications, seawater desalination)

• Acidic solutions (chemical processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing)

• Chloride-rich environments (food processing, swimming pool equipment)

• Industrial chemicals (hydrocarbons, solvents, and corrosive gases)

Unlike 304 stainless steel, which may corrode in high-chloride settings, AISI 316 retains its integrity, reducing maintenance costs and extending the lifespan of products.

2. Exceptional Mechanical & High-Temperature Performance

AISI 316 offers a balanced combination of strength and ductility, making it suitable for both structural and functional applications. Its key mechanical properties (per standard specifications) include:

Mechanical properties for 06Cr17Ni12Mo2/0Cr17Ni12Mo2 from standard GB/T1220 and SUS316 from JIS G4303.

Mechanical properties for X5CrNiMo17-12-2/1.4401 from standard EN10088-3

Mechanical properties at room temperature of steels in the COLD-WORKED condition from standard EN10088-3

Minimum values for the 0.2% and 1% proof strength of austenitic steels at elevated temperatures according to standard EN10088-3

AT = Solution annealed

3. Versatile Fabrication & Weldability

AISI 316 can be easily welded using standard methods such as TIG, MIG, and arc welding, with no loss of corrosion resistance or mechanical strength in the welded area (when proper techniques are used). Its good machinability allows for precise cutting, drilling, and shaping, enabling manufacturers to create complex components with tight tolerances. This versatility reduces production complexity and costs, making AISI 316 a cost-effective choice for custom projects.

4. Biocompatibility & Sanitary Qualities

AISI 316 is non-toxic and biocompatible, meeting the strict standards for medical and food-related applications. Its smooth surface is easy to clean and sanitize, preventing bacterial growth—critical for food processing equipment, pharmaceutical tools, and surgical instruments. It is also resistant to sterilization processes (such as autoclaving), ensuring long-term reliability in healthcare settings.

Supply Sizes & Tolerances & Surface Finishes

We offer AISI 316 in a wide range of sizes and configurations to meet the needs of diverse applications. Below are the standard supply options, with customizable sizes available upon request:

Supply Sizes

Qilu steel stock hot rolled bar and forged bars more than ten thousands tons every month, below our our stock size.

Stock Sizes (Hot Rolled Bar)

Φ10mm, Φ12mm, Φ15mm, Φ18mm, Φ20mm, Φ22mm, Φ25mm, Φ28mm, Φ30mm, Φ32mm, Φ35mm, Φ38mm, Φ40mm, Φ45mm, Φ50mm, Φ55mm, Φ60mm, Φ65mm, Φ70mm, Φ75mm, Φ80mm, Φ85mm, Φ90mm, Φ95mm, Φ100mm, Φ105mm, Φ110mm, Φ120mm, Φ130mm, Φ140mm, Φ150mm, Φ160mm, Φ170mm, Φ180mm, Φ190mm.

Stock Sizes (Hot Forged Bar)

Φ200mm, Φ210mm, Φ220mm, Φ230mm, Φ240mm, Φ250mm, Φ260mm, Φ270mm, Φ280mm, Φ290mm, Φ300mm, Φ310mm, Φ320mm, Φ330mm, Φ340mm, Φ350mm, Φ360mm, Φ370mm, Φ380mm, Φ390mm, Φ400mm.

Note: Stock availability changes daily. For real-time stock checks, please contact our sales team.

Tolerances & Straightness

Surface Finishes

We offer multiple surface finishes to suit different applications, from industrial machinery to decorative products:

• Black Forged/Rolled: Ideal for structural applications where appearance is not a priority.

• Turned/Milled: Smooth surface for mechanical components requiring precise dimensions.

• Peeled: Clean, uniform surface with minimal imperfections.

• Grinded/Polished: Mirror-like finish for decorative, sanitary, or high-precision applications (e.g., medical devices, kitchenware).

Manufacturing & Heat Treatment Processes

Steel Making Process

We adhere to strict quality control standards during steel production, using advanced processes to ensure purity and consistency:

• EF (Electric Arc Furnace) + LF (Ladle Furnace) + VD (Vacuum Degassing)

• EAF (Electric Arc Furnace) + LF + VD

• EF + LF + VD + ESR (Electroslag Remelting)

• EAF + LF + VD + ESR

These processes remove impurities, reduce gas content, and ensure uniform chemical composition, resulting in high-quality AISI 316 with reliable performance.

Forging Process

• Hot forging temperature: 900-1200℃

• Cooling method: Air cooling (to prevent cracking and maintain mechanical properties)

Heat Treatment

• Solution Annealing: Heat to 1010-1150℃, followed by rapid air or water cooling. This process dissolves precipitated carbides, restores the austenitic structure, and enhances corrosion resistance.

• Aging: Heat to 850-930℃ (for specific applications requiring improved hardness or strength).

Ultrasonic Testing

All AISI 316 products undergo ultrasonic testing to ensure internal integrity, complying with EN10228-3 Class III or Sep 1921-84 D/D standards. This testing detects hidden defects such as cracks or inclusions, guaranteeing product reliability.

Application Scenarios

AISI 316 unique combination of properties makes it suitable for a wide range of industries and applications. Below are the most common uses:

1. Chemical & Petroleum Industry

• Corrosion-resistant equipment: Reactors, heat exchangers, pipelines, valves, pumps, and storage tanks for handling acids, alkalis, hydrocarbons, and other aggressive chemicals.

• Offshore oil and gas equipment: Drilling components, wellheads, and subsea pipelines exposed to seawater and corrosive gases.

2. Food & Pharmaceutical Industry

• Food processing machinery: Fermentation tanks, conveying pipelines, mixers, and packaging equipment (resistant to cleaning chemicals and food acids).

• Pharmaceutical production: Sanitary tanks, filters, and processing tools (meets FDA and GMP standards for cleanliness and biocompatibility).

• Beverage industry: Brewing equipment, dairy processing machinery, and juice production lines.

3. Medical Devices

• Surgical instruments: Scalpels, forceps, and implantable devices (e.g., orthopedic screws, hip replacements) due to biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and sterilization durability.

• Dental equipment: Prosthetics, dental tools, and implants.

4. Marine & Coastal Applications

• Offshore platforms: Structural components, railings, and equipment exposed to saltwater.

• Seawater treatment systems: Desalination plants (reverse osmosis membrane components, high-pressure piping) and wastewater treatment equipment.

• Coastal construction: Bridges, railings, curtain walls, and architectural fixtures in salt-prone areas.

5. Energy & Environmental Protection

• Nuclear power: Auxiliary components for nuclear fuel assemblies, cooling systems, and containment structures.

• Power plants: Flue gas desulfurization (FGD) equipment, boilers, and heat exchangers.

• Renewable energy: Wind turbine components (exposed to harsh weather) and solar panel supports in coastal regions.

6. Aerospace & Automotive

• Aerospace: Fuel lines, hydraulic system components, and engine parts (resistant to high temperatures and aviation fuels).

• Automotive: Exhaust systems, sensors, and trim parts for high-performance vehicles (resists corrosion from road salt and exhaust gases).

7. Daily Life & Luxury Goods

• Kitchenware: High-end cookware, cutlery, and sinks (easy to clean, rust-resistant, and durable).

• Luxury goods: Jewelry, watches, and decorative items (polished finish retains luster and resists tarnish).

• Swimming pools: Ladder rails, drains, and fittings (resistant to chlorine and saltwater).

FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between AISI 316 and 304 stainless steel?

A1: The main difference is the addition of molybdenum in AISI 316 (2-3%), which significantly enhances its corrosion resistance—especially in chloride-rich environments (e.g., seawater, swimming pools) and acidic conditions. 304 is suitable for mild environments (e.g., indoor use, dry climates), while 316 is preferred for harsh or corrosive settings. AISI 316 also has higher nickel content (10-14% vs. 8-12% in 304), improving ductility and high-temperature performance.

Q2: Is AISI 316 rust-proof?

A2: AISI 316 is highly corrosion-resistant but not entirely "rust-proof." It forms a passive chromium oxide layer that protects against rust in most environments, including saltwater and chemicals. However, in extreme conditions (e.g., high concentrations of chloride, prolonged exposure to strong acids), this layer may break down, leading to pitting corrosion. Proper maintenance (e.g., regular cleaning, avoiding prolonged exposure to corrosive substances) helps preserve its rust resistance.

Q3: Can AISI 316 be welded?

A3: Yes, AISI 316 is easily weldable using standard methods (TIG, MIG, arc welding). To maintain corrosion resistance, use a matching filler metal (e.g., ER316L for low-carbon applications) and avoid overheating during welding. Post-weld annealing is not required for most applications, but solution annealing may be recommended for critical components exposed to severe corrosion.

Q4: Is AISI 316 magnetic?

A4: No, AISI 316 is a non-magnetic austenitic stainless steel. However, cold working (e.g., bending, forming) can induce slight magnetism due to the formation of martensite. This magnetism is temporary and can be eliminated through solution annealing.

Q5:  What is the difference between AISI 316 and 316L?

A5: AISI 316L is a low-carbon variant of 316 (carbon content ≤0.03% vs. ≤0.08% in 316). The lower carbon content reduces the risk of intergranular corrosion during welding or heat treatment, making 316L ideal for welded components exposed to severe corrosion. 316L has slightly lower tensile strength (minimum 485Mpa vs. 520Mpa for 316) but similar corrosion resistance and ductility.

Q6: How do I clean and maintain AISI 316?

A6: To maintain AISI 316 performance and appearance:

• Clean regularly with mild soap and water to remove dirt, salt, or chemicals.

• For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner (avoid steel wool or abrasive pads, which can scratch the surface and reduce corrosion resistance).

• Rinse thoroughly with clean water after cleaning to remove residue.

• Avoid prolonged exposure to strong acids (e.g., hydrochloric acid) or bases (e.g., sodium hydroxide), as these can damage the passive layer.

Whether you need AISI 316 for industrial equipment, medical devices, or decorative products, we have the expertise and resources to deliver high-quality solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today to request a quote, check stock availability, or learn more about our AISI 316 stainless steel products.

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